FAQ
Paving Questions:
When can I drive on my new driveway?
Liquid asphalt in blacktop needs time to harden and cure- usually takes 6-12 months. Your driveway will remain soft and pliable until then. You may walk on it immediately but keep automobile traffic off of it for at least 3 full days.
How to prevent damage to my new driveway?
Be sure to take your time when going and coming as driving too quickly can cause damage.
If possible, do not park in the same spot every time.
Do no turn your steering wheel back and forth when your car is sitting still.
If using jacks or car ramps place a piece of plywood underneath to distribute weight evenly.
Keep heavy trucks off your new driveway as the weight can depress the blacktop. If storing campers place plywood under tires, tongue and jack to distribute the weight.
How to care for my new driveway?
Avoid driving on the edges of your new driveway as they are the weakest part and will crumble and crack overtime. To help strengthen the edges build the sides of your driveway with topsoil and enhance the appearance after grass grows.
Avoid gasoline, oil, anti-freeze, power steering, and transmission fluid spills and leaks as this can dilute the liquid asphalt in your blacktop and create holes. Any holes produces by these spills should be filled with cold patch. If any hairline cracks have developed over winter due to the contraction and expansion of the ground should be filled with crack filler.
Seal coating a driveway is not advised until years of visible wear are evident. Blacktop is naturally porous and needs to breathe. Prematurely sealing your driveway can prevent the blacktop from breathing and show more wear and tear. To keep your drive way in good condition be sure to fill the cracks as they appear.